At the YMCA, we believe in nurturing the potential of every individual, and nothing showcases this commitment more than our participation in the YMCA Leadership Academy. We are proud to celebrate the graduation of our Toledo representatives, Crystal Tollstam and Dave Klepaski, who exemplified what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and impact.

Toledo, OH – March 24, 2025 — At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe strong communities are built by passionate leaders—those who give of themselves, lift others up, and help create lasting change. This year, we are proud to recognize one of those changemakers.

Lisa Hawker, our current Board Chair and longtime advocate for the Y, has been named the YMCA Volunteer of the Year, a distinguished national honor that recognizes individuals who exemplify our mission and transform their communities through service.

At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to be safe in and around water. That’s why, in partnership with ProMedica, TPS Foundation, Cenovus Energy, Toledo Refining Company, and Mercy Health, we’ve launched a lifesaving initiative to provide free swim lessons to second graders in Toledo Public Schools on the East Side.

This program was created in honor of a TPS student who tragically drowned in Lake Superior last summer. His legacy now lives on through this initiative, ensuring young students gain the confidence and critical water safety skills they need.

Supporting Ohio Families with Quality, Affordable Child Care

February 4, 2025, we were honored to welcome Governor Mike DeWine to the YMCA Child Development Center at Owens Community College as he highlighted the importance of affordable, high-quality child care for Ohio families. His visit reinforced the vital role that early childhood education plays in shaping the future of our children and strengthening our communities.

At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe in the power of community—coming together to lift one another, to provide opportunities, and to create a lasting impact that spans generations. Today, we are honored and grateful to recognize an incredible act of generosity from Eidi Properties, whose unwavering commitment to strengthening communities shines through in their remarkable $50,000 donation to the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA.